Jury Reaches Verdict: Diddy Acquitted of Sex Trafficking, Found Guilty of Lesser Charge
After weeks of emotional testimony, shocking revelations, and explosive evidence, the jury has finally delivered a verdict in the highly publicized criminal case against music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs. Diddy was acquitted of federal sex trafficking and RICO charges, including those tied directly to singer Cassie Ventura and another former girlfriend.
RELATED:Breaking: Diddy Found Not Guilty On Sex Trafficking And Racketeering Charges
However, the jury did find Diddy guilty on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution — a lesser but still damning conviction that keeps the spotlight firmly on the fallen Bad Boy executive.
In response to the verdict, Cassie’s legal team wasted no time addressing the outcome and doubling down on their belief in her story.
Cassie’s Lawyer Breaks Silence After Verdict: “We Believe Her. Period.”
Cassie’s attorney released a powerful and emotionally charged statement late Tuesday:
“This entire criminal process started when our client Cassie Ventura had the courage to file her civil complaint in November 2023. Although the jury did not find Combs guilty of sex trafficking Cassie beyond a reasonable doubt, she paved the way for a jury to find him guilty of transportation to engage in prostitution.
By coming forward with her experience, Cassie has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the fight for justice.
We must repeat – with no reservation – that we believe and support our client who showed exemplary courage throughout this trial.
She displayed unquestionable strength and brought attention to the realities of powerful men in our orbit and the misconduct that has persisted for decades without repercussion.
This case proved that change is long overdue, and we will continue to fight on behalf of survivors.”
How It All Began: Cassie’s Groundbreaking Lawsuit Against Diddy
As we previously reported, Cassie Ventura first filed a civil lawsuit in November 2023, dropping bombshell allegations that forever altered how the public viewed Diddy. She accused him of years of abuse, including rape, forced drug use, and coercion into sex acts with others — behavior she alleged was part of a pattern of control and manipulation that began when she was just 19 years old and signed to Bad Boy Records.
Within 24 hours of her filing, the two sides reached a private settlement, reportedly worth over $10 million. The speed of the agreement only added fuel to public speculation, with many assuming Diddy was trying to silence her.
But Cassie wasn’t done.
Cassie Testified Anyway — Her Voice Helped Lead to the Guilty Verdict
Despite the civil case being settled, Cassie later testified as a key witness in the federal criminal trial — providing prosecutors with crucial details about Diddy’s alleged conduct, his control over her life, and the disturbing culture that surrounded him.
Her testimony became a cornerstone of the prosecution’s case, painting a dark portrait of a man many once idolized. While the jury did not convict on the more serious sex trafficking charges, Cassie’s account still played a pivotal role in helping them reach a guilty verdict on the transportation-for-prostitution count.
A Culture Shift: What This Means for the Industry and Survivors
Cassie’s lawyer made it plain: this trial was about more than just one man.
Her coming forward set off a chain reaction. Multiple women began speaking up. Some joined lawsuits. Others submitted testimony. What Cassie did, many say, cracked open a door that’s been sealed shut for decades — where powerful men operated with unchecked authority and zero consequences.
What’s Next For Diddy and Cassie?
While Diddy’s legal team prepares for sentencing — which could still lead to years behind bars — Cassie’s legal team says they’re not done fighting.